How do I know if my dog needs deworming?

Worms are a sneaky problem—they can set up shop in your dog’s gut without making a peep, but most of the time, your pup will drop hints that something’s off. Knowing these signs can help you catch an infestation early, keeping them healthy and happy. After all, no one wants their furry friend dealing with those uninvited guests.

One of the first things to watch for is changes in their bathroom habits. If you notice tiny white specks that look like rice in their stool or around their tail, that’s a red flag—those could be worm eggs or segments. Diarrhea that sticks around, or stool with a weird, greasy texture, might also mean worms are messing with their digestion. And keep an eye on accidents in the house; sudden potty issues, especially in a dog that’s usually well-trained, sometimes trace back to an upset gut from parasites.

Your dog’s energy levels can tell you a lot too. Worms steal nutrients, so even if they’re eating like normal, they might start looking skinny or lose weight. Lethargy is another clue—if your normally zoomie pup suddenly seems tired, uninterested in walks, or just wants to sleep more, it could be because those worms are taking what your dog needs to thrive. Puppies are extra at risk here; a bad infestation can slow their growth, so if your young dog isn’t putting on weight like they should, deworming might be the fix.

Physical signs on their body are hard to miss once you know what to look for. A dull, dry coat that’s losing its shine can signal that nutrients aren’t being absorbed properly. Some dogs get a potbellied look, especially puppies, when worms build up in their intestines. You might also spot them scooting their rear across the floor—this isn’t just a funny quirk; it could mean worms are irritating their bottom. And in severe cases, you might even see small, wiggly worms in their vomit, though that’s less common.

It’s important to remember that even if you don’t see signs, regular deworming is part of responsible pet care. Many vets recommend a schedule based on your dog’s age, lifestyle, and where you live—like if they spend a lot of time outdoors, hunt, or interact with other animals. Skipping it can lead to bigger health issues, and in some places, keeping up with parasite prevention is part of local pet care regulations. When in doubt, a quick chat with your vet can clear things up; they can run a stool test to check for worms and suggest the right treatment.

Catching a worm problem early makes it easier to treat, and keeps your dog from discomfort. Whether it’s changes in their stool, energy, or appearance, your pup is counting on you to notice when something’s wrong. A little vigilance, paired with regular check-ins with your vet, goes a long way in keeping those pesky worms at bay. After all, a healthy dog is a happy one—and that’s what we all want for our four-legged family members.